Preview: Cheetahs v Western Force

The Cheetahs host the Western Force in what promises to be an entertaining clash in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

The Cheetahs host the tournament's surprise package, the Western Force, in what promises to be an entertaining clash in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

The two teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in 2014, with the Cheetahs currently lying last on the table while the Force - who, in previous campaigns were used to being amongst the basement dwellers - are currently in fifth spot.

The home side have delivered a mix bag of performances this season. They pride themselves on their attacking style of play but have battled on defence throughout the season.

Their recent form has been inconsistent and after delivering an impressive performance in a 35-22 demolition over the Stormers two weeks ago, they threw away an 18-9 half-time lead against the Bulls last weekend before suffering a 26-21 loss.

"They are two quality players that are very influential in the way we want to play.

"Coenie played 30 minutes against the Bulls and I think he showed he is ready for more this week. We will see how it goes with his fitness, but we are excited to have him back.

"Goose has had a rough patch were he had a couple of niggles, so hopefully everything is now 100 percent fine and he can play longer."

The history between the Cheetahs and the Force is very even over the years. After winning the first four matches between these teams, the Force have lost the next three. And the points' difference since 2006 is a mere nine points for an average score of 19-17 to the visitors from Perth.

The Force - who are playing their first match of a two-match South African tour - will be chasing their first win in Bloemfontein since 2008 when they edged out the Cheetahs, 16-15. The home side has claimed their past two fixtures in the Free State, winning 29-14 in 2010 and 17-13 in 2012.

The Force will also be looking for their first win on South African soil since March 2011, when they beat the Lions at Ellis Park.